Williams-Sonoma, Pottery Barn Tap New Leadership

SAN FRANCISCO - Williams- Sonoma Inc. has appointed David Jimenez as svp, visual and store experience, for its Williams-Sonoma brand, and promoted three to senior vp posts. Jimenez previously served as vp for visual merchandising and store design at Hallmark. Prior to that, he worked at national retailers including Gap Inc., Restoration Hardware and Pottery Barn. "At Williams-Sonoma we are committed to offering unique in-store experiences to our customers. David is the right person to drive this focus and will lead us toward new innovation and continued growth for the brand," said Janet Hayes, president of the Williams-Sonoma brand. Peter Sassi has been appointed svp, stores, for the Williams- Sonoma brand. He is being promoted from svp, inventory management - a post he held for the past 10 years. The company described Sassi as a "vital partner to the stores team, demonstrating a passion for engagement with field management and a strong understanding of the Williams- Sonoma customer." Jeff Howie has been named svp, inventory management and finance of the Williams- Sonoma brand. A 10-year veteran of the business, he was most recently svp, inventory management for the Pottery Barn Kids and PBteen brands. John Trifoso's current role as svp, Pottery Barn inventory management, is expanding to lead the inventory management teams for the Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids and PBteen brands. Sandra Stangl, president of the Pottery Barn brands noted: "John has been with the company for nine years and has led the Pottery Barn inventory team through a period of unprecedented growth. This move to consolidate inventory for the Pottery Barn brands will enhance the company's ability to meet customers' needs at every life stage."